Are you thinking about becoming a bookkeeper in Nebraska?
People often mix them up with accountants, their jobs are different.
This role could be ideal if you’re good at math and enjoy staying organized.
Their main task is to track all the transactions within a company.
Usually, it’s an office job that provides stability, though working remotely is also possible.
If you’re considering a career in bookkeeping in Nebraska, look at the article below!
Article Table of Contents
How to Get Started – Step by Step
Becoming a bookkeeper in Nebraska can be achieved in two ways:
- Through education.
- Through experience.
Regardless of the chosen path, the initial step is identical for both.
Step 1 – Earn Your High School Diploma
Before anything else, you need to complete high school.
This means ensuring you obtain your diploma.
If getting a high school diploma isn’t feasible, you can opt for a GED instead.
Step 2 Education – Earn a Degree
Having a degree in the field can improve job opportunities, but it’s not mandatory.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a degree is often required for this career path.
You can pursue these degrees:
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
While master’s degrees are less common for bookkeepers, they can enhance your standing in the field.
We’ll discuss some training schools later on.
Step 3 Education – Train on-the-job
Before stepping into the role of a bookkeeper, you’ll need to undergo some training.
You can learn on the job, and this training typically lasts less than six months.
If you’re studying, it’s crucial to become proficient in using the company’s bookkeeping software.
Additionally, you’ll need to focus on improving your speed and accuracy in managing the company’s financial transactions.
Step 2 Practice – Gain Experience
To work as a bookkeeper, having a license is usually required.
However, before obtaining a license, you’ll need to gain some on-the-job experience.
When it comes to certification, you have two options.
The first option is to get licensed by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) after two years of work.
Alternatively, you can become certified by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) after just 12 months of experience.
Step 3 Practice – Earn the Credentials
All of these certifications are recognized nationwide.
Each license consists of four tests, so if you pursue both licenses, that totals eight exams.
You can take two tests at designated testing locations, and for the other exams, you’re allowed to refer to your notes.
Prometric manages these testing locations.
Remember, once you’re certified, it’s crucial to keep your certification current.
To maintain it, you’ll need to complete an additional 24 hours of classes.
Bookkeeping Programs in Nebraska
It’s time you found out about the bookkeeping or accounting training programs in Nebraska!
University of Nebraska – College of Business Administration
At this school, you can choose between the BSBA-Accounting and Master of Accounting programs.
The BSBA Degree lasts for 4 years with a total of 120 credits to earn.
There are a few requirements to graduate, including having a GPA of at least 2.5.
For the CPA Exam in this state, you’ll need to graduate the ACCT 4070.
If you’re interested in the MAcc degree program, you could be eligible for a scholarship or a fellowship.
However, you’ll need to pass a test to be accepted into the program.
Additionally, you’ll need a minimum of 3.0 GPA.
Southeast Community College
The business program offered by this college is available at all its 3 campuses.
Additionally, if you don’t want to attend classes in person, you can enroll in the online version of the program.
Through the program offered, you can earn a diploma or a certificate.
The tuition depends on the type of credential you want:
- $4,627 Diploma
- $2,225 Certificate
These numbers are subject to change.
One of the requirements to be accepted in the course is being able to type 30 words per minute with less than 3 mistakes.
If you complete the certificate course, you’re halfway to earning the diploma as well.
Then you can study for an AAS in Business.
School Name | Address |
---|---|
University of Nebraska - College of Business Administration | 300 Mammel Hall 6708 Pine Street Omaha, NE 68182 |
Southeast Community College | 4771 W. Scott Road Beatrice, NE 68310-7042 |
Southeast Community College | 600 State St. Milford, NE 68405-8498 |
Southeast Community College | 8800 O St. Lincoln, NE 68520-1227 |
Bookkeeper Salary in Nebraska
After completing your education, it’s important to consider your potential earnings.
Let’s focus on bookkeepers in Nebraska who make on average around $41,642 per year.
Remember, your salary can vary based on your workplace and level of experience.
Take a look at the table below for a better understanding of the salary range.
Annual Salary Range:Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
---|---|
Palisade | $43,631 |
Benkelman | $43,631 |
Stratton | $43,410 |
Culbertson | $43,145 |
Trenton | $43,012 |
Enders | $42,835 |
Bellevue | $42,040 |
Omaha | $42,040 |
Paxton | $41,996 |
Bennington | $41,907 |
Regional Salary in Nebraska
Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Grand Island, NE | 450 | $45,350 | $21.8 | $58,780 | $32,190 |
Lincoln, NE | 1,550 | $46,000 | $22.12 | $59,450 | $32,240 |
Omaha-Council Bluffs, NE-IA | 4,800 | $49,310 | $23.71 | $64,900 | $34,860 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What skills are needed by bookkeepers in Nebraska?
To excel as a bookkeeper in Nebraska, you need to have these skills:
- Attention to detail
- Proficiency in invoicing procedures
- Critical thinking abilities
- Strong organizational skills
- Effective communication skills
- Efficient time management
Are bookkeepers in high demand in Nebraska?
Absolutely!
The demand for accountants, bookkeepers, and other specialists in this field is high.
Finding employment should indeed be a breeze!
Can I choose a different career path if bookkeeping is not for me, in Nebraska?
For individuals undergoing training as bookkeepers, there are various career paths available:
- Bookkeeper
- Accounts Receivable Clerk
- Accounts Payable Specialist
- Payroll Clerk
- Assistant to Accountants (both line and staff)
- Paraprofessionals in CPA Firms
Each of these roles offers unique opportunities for specialization and advancement within the bookkeeping field.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Bookkeeper